If you have it, you likely take it for granted. But if you don't have it, there's a fair chance you're at a disadvantage from an educational or business standpoint.
We're talking about high-speed internet, also known as broadband.
When COVID-19 forced schools to close and switch to distance learning, it became readily apparent how inadequate our broadband coverage is in parts of rural Missouri.
Put simply, many students don't have good internet connectivity and aren't keeping up with their school work.
That's why it's good to see Gov. Mike Parson's Emergency Broadband Investment Program is seeing tangible results.
We recently reported Socket Telecom officials plan to work on future broadband upgrades in Central Missouri after completing projects in St. Martins thanks to state money dedicated for broadband expansion.
Construction started at several St. Martins locations in August through the program, which reimburses providers for work to connect residents in unserved or under-served areas with high-speed internet.
As we reported, Socket received $15,840 to construct a fiber network to the Meadowbrook neighborhood in St. Martins to provide new access to nine households. It also got $31,828 to construct a fiber network to the Verdant Lane neighborhood to provide new access to 19 households.
Parson announced a second round of broadband funding in October, which provided Socket with close to $130,000 for two more projects around St. Martins.
Our library system is known as the "great equalizer" because it allows anyone to attain knowledge. Broadband internet, likewise, helps to equal the playing field, especially for students.
We're glad to see Parson's program is delivering results in our area and throughout rural Missouri.
News Tribune